VFW Teacher of the Year

The Veterans of Foreign Wars is proud to honor exceptional teachers through the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award program. This annual recognition highlights educators who instill patriotism, civic responsibility, and a deep respect for American history and traditions in their students.

Three teachers are honored annually — one from each level: grades K-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Winners at every level receive recognition and awards, with the National winners receiving $1,000 for professional development, $1,000 for their school, commemorative plaques, and an all-expense-paid trip to the VFW National Convention:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.

• All certified or licensed teachers in grades K-12 are eligible.
• Teachers should demonstrate excellence in citizenship education, civic involvement, and patriotism.
• Previous national winners are ineligible.
• Nominations may be submitted by teachers, supervisors, family members, students, or other interested individuals:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

• Citizenship (1–25 points): Encourages and models good citizenship and community involvement.
• Innovation (1–25 points): Utilizes new ideas, tools, or methods to inspire students and promote learning.
• Resources (1–25 points): Demonstrates the ability to identify and use unique educational resources and partnerships.
• Passion (1–25 points): Shows enthusiasm and dedication for teaching, growth, and student success:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

Each nomination must include:

• A completed official entry form
• A one-page résumé (minimum) or up to five pages of documentation (résumé, news articles, references, etc.)
• A head-and-shoulder photo (optional but encouraged)

All entries begin at the local Post level. Nominees may submit their entry directly to a participating VFW Post within their state of residence.

Winners will advance through the District and Department levels before reaching National competition.

Send Department-level entries to:

Department Deadline: January 1, 2026

Questions may be directed to the Department Teacher Award Chair or by visiting vfw.org for resources and forms.